"Living in Korea in 2025? Here's What Foreigners & Overseas Koreans Need to Know About Health Insurance"

If you're a foreigner or overseas Korean living or planning to live in Korea for more than six months, understanding how the National Health Insurance (NHI) system works is essential. This guide walks you through who is eligible, how to apply, exceptions to the rule, how premiums are calculated, and what healthcare benefits you can receive in 2025.

• 1. Eligibility for Health Insurance
• 2. Exemption Conditions
• 3. How to Apply (Offline/Online)
• 4. Premium Calculation and Discounts
• 5. Key Benefits of NHI
• 6. Final Thoughts

1. Eligibility for Health Insurance

Basic Requirement

As of 2025, foreigners and overseas Koreans who stay in Korea for over six months are automatically enrolled in the National Health Insurance. This applies regardless of nationality or employment status.

2. Exemption Conditions

Who Can Apply for Exemption

You may apply for exemption from NHI if you meet any of the following conditions:

• You're an international student without income in Korea
• You're staying in Korea short-term (less than 3 months)
• You’re already covered by a health insurance policy in your home country

Required Documents and Translations

To apply for exemption, you must submit the following:

• Passport and Alien Registration Card (ARC)
• Visa or proof of residency status
• Certificate of existing health insurance in your home country

Documents not in Korean or English must be submitted with an official Korean translation.

Country-Specific Authentication

Documents from Apostille countries (e.g., the U.S., Japan) only require Apostille certification. Non-Apostille countries (e.g., China) must submit documents verified by their foreign ministry or a Korean consulate.

3. How to Apply (Offline/Online)

Offline Application

Visit your local NHIS branch and submit a qualification report form along with the required documents. Application via mail or fax is also possible but may take longer to process.

Online Application

You can apply through the Government24 website, NHIS website, or the 'The건강보험' mobile app. You will need a digital certificate (joint authentication) and must attach scanned copies of the required documents.

✅ Apply Now via Government24 👉 Go to Government24
※ Requires digital certificate and scanned documents

4. Premium Calculation and Discounts

Employee Subscribers

If you're employed, about 7.09% of your salary goes toward health insurance premiums, split evenly between you and your employer.

Local Subscribers

If you're self-employed or unemployed, your premium is based on income and assets. Foreigners must pay a minimum premium of 135,000 KRW per month in 2025.

Students and Dependents

International students with D-2 or D-4 visas receive a 50% discount. Family members of employed individuals can be registered as dependents after living in Korea for more than six months, paying no premium themselves.

5. Key Benefits of NHI

Outpatient and Inpatient Care

Outpatient care requires you to pay 30–60% of the medical bill. Inpatient care is more affordable, with only 20% paid by the patient, and the rest covered by NHI.

Prescriptions and Checkups

Prescription drugs are covered up to 70%. You can also receive a free health checkup every two years, including screenings for major cancers.

Maternity and Serious Illness Support

Receive support for pregnancy and childbirth through the Happy Mom Card. Serious illnesses like cancer are eligible for special programs that reduce personal costs to 5–10%.

6. Final Thoughts

Foreigners and overseas Koreans are entitled to the same medical benefits as local residents through the National Health Insurance system. Understanding your eligibility and completing the application process promptly will help you enjoy safe and affordable healthcare in Korea.